Students from Fairfield High School for Girls in Tameside have been crowned national winners of the Young Green Briton Challenge 2025, thanks to their pioneering project SustainInhale, a concept for a sustainable asthma inhaler aimed at reducing plastic waste and environmental harm.
The competition, run by GenEarth to support youth-led environmental innovation, began with 47 teams from across the UK. Fairfield’s team was one of just four national winners, earning £750 investment funding and ongoing mentorship to help develop their idea further.
Inspired by a fellow student’s experience with asthma, the team identified the environmental cost of single-use plastic inhalers and proposed a reusable casing paired with a recyclable canister. They developed a working prototype, launched a dedicated Instagram channel @sustaininhale, and even secured early interest from AstraZeneca.
Their presentation at the regional finals in Liverpool made a powerful impact. Liverpool Council Leader Anthony Burns was so impressed, he wrote directly to Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Council Leader Bev Craig, urging them to support the team. He wrote:
“I really am not doing these students justice in this email — they were absolutely outstanding… I would recommend a visit so you can meet these wonderful students for yourselves.”
Miss Derrett, who played a vital role in the girl’s success, supporting them every step of the way and accompanying them on trips, commented “We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievement of our year 9 pupils, Team SustainInhale, in winning the Young Green Briton Challenge in London! Their creativity, passion and commitment to sustainability truly set them apart.
From the very beginning, SustainInhale demonstrated innovation and teamwork, tackling real-world environmental issues with inspiring solutions. Their win is a testament not only to their hard work, but also to the power of youth-led change.
We couldn’t be prouder, well done girls, you have exemplified Fairfield values every step of the way!”
Miss Lealman, Head of School added “We are enormously proud of the team and all the work and preparation leading up to the event in London. It is a fantastic achievement with an excellent concept and a clear vision which they were able to articulate with confidence. Very well done from all at Fairfield!”
The girls have gone above and beyond, developing prototypes, reaching out to industry, and showing real passion for solving an environmental issue they truly care about.
With national recognition, seed funding and expert mentorship now secured, the SustainInhale team is focused on developing the concept further and turning their classroom innovation into a real-world solution. This is just the beginning for these inspiring young changemakers.
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